Can Condoms Cause Yeast Infections?

Can Condoms Cause A Yeast Infection?

Can condoms cause yeast infections? Most women will have a yeast infection at least once in their lives. This is because the vagina has a few types of fungus that is present in relatively small numbers. An overgrowth of the Candida albicans along with a few other bacteria can cause yeast infections. A change in the vaginal environment such as increased PH, allergic reaction, increased heat and moisture, hormonal influx, elevated sugar levels, or a reduction in some bacteria present in your vagina can cause the bacteria to multiply rapidly, causing a fully-fledged yeast infection. We answer below if can condoms cause yeast infections.

Therefore, it is important that you figure out what is causing your yeast infection, to work prevent them. Many things trigger a yeast infection. However, most people wonder if condoms may be one of the reasons.

Using a condom is a sure way to prevent you from getting infected with a sexually transmitted disease. However, many people still wonder if it is the cause of their constant battle with a yeast infection. Yes. Condoms, especially spermicidal condoms, can cause a yeast infection. There are three ways by which condoms cause a yeast infection.

1. Can Condoms Cause Yeast Infection With Spermicidal?

Most condoms contain a spermicide coating that helps to grow its protective mechanism. A spermicidal condom has an active ingredient known as nonoxynol-9.Nonoxynol-9 is a common ingredient in all spermicides in the United States. Although the U.S Food and Drug Administration deems it safe, some people may have an allergic reaction to this compound. Nonoxynol-9 affects the vaginal environment thereby irritating women. The disruption may cause a rapid increase in the yeast bacteria to cause a yeast infection. Symptoms to look out for include painful irritation, genital rash, or itching.

If you think that spermicidal condoms are causing your yeast infections, try using a spermicide-free condom. There are a few options in the market available to you.

2. Can An Allergy To Latex Condoms Cause Yeast Infections?

If you are allergic to latex, using a condom will lead to the development of a yeast infection. This is because the allergic reaction tampers with your vaginal environment causing a change in the PH levels in your vagina. The most common symptoms that you are allergic to latex are feeling a burning or itching sensation every time you engage in sex using a latex condom. You may also experience severe vaginal irritation. The symptoms may last between 1 to 4 days.

Other symptoms include;

• Redness and swelling of the labia and vagina

• A foul smell discharge

• Painful sex

If you are allergic to latex condoms, try using a polyurethane or lambskin condom

3. Can Condoms Cause Yeast Infections With Personal Lubricants?

Condoms may cause your yeast infection if you are allergic to the lubricant applied, although this is less common. Some condom brands are heavily lubricated with glycerin. Glycerin makes water-based lubricants more slippery. Glycerin is similar to glucose-sugar. Yeast thrives well in places with glycerin. Most people who are prone to yeast infections cannot use lubricants that contain glycerin because they give them to increase their chances of getting a yeast infection.

If this is the case, shop around for a non-lubricated condom or a one with a different lubricant.

Still, most people who get a yeast infection do not get them from sexual contact. There are a few other ways one can get a yeast infection.

Other Causes Of Yeast Infection

• Taking Antibiotics

Although antibiotics are used to kill harmful bacteria that makes you sick, it can also kill the good bacteria living in your vagina. Hence, this may lead to the rapid growth of yeast causing an infection.

• Using Feminine Hygiene Products

Douching is a common cause of yeast infection. Your vagina has very delicate tissues that can easily be irritated by chemical based toiletries, even those that claim to be mild.

• Hormonal Changes

An increase in the estrogen levels in your body may cause yeast infections. These hormonal changes may be due to pregnancy or taking some form of hormonal therapy.

• Not Keeping The Vaginal Area Clean Or Dry Enough

Yeast infections thrive most in parts of the body that are moist and dark. Always ensure that you keep your vagina clean and dry by wiping from front to back. This will prevent the spread of fecal bacteria to your vagina that causes yeast.

Yes. To a degree, condoms can be the cause of your yeast infection. However, regardless of the cause of your yeast infection, it is important that you seek medical attention as soon as you start experiencing any symptoms of a yeast infection. There are many causes of yeast infection. Your health professional is best suited to give you the right diagnosis and treatment. While we’ve answered can condoms cause yeast infections, it’s important to seek a medical professional for the most for the best answers.